Estevan Mercury 20230208

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SaskTel Tankard finale brought a thrilling end to curling provincials

By David Willberg

The top men’s curling teams in Saskatchewan came through with an entertaining final for fans on Sunday afternoon, and a first-time provincial champion emerged victorious over a decorated past champion.

Kelly Knapp’s rink, competing out of the Regina Highland Curling Club, edged Steve Laycock 5-4 in the final of the SaskTel Tankard provincial championship at Affinity Place. It also capped a perfect weekend for Knapp, as he went 5-0.

Other members of the Knapp rink were third Brennen Jones, second Mike Armstrong and lead Trent Knapp. The two Knapps are twin brothers.

Happy hunters. EWF salutes successful hunters and anglers.

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Cupid’s Cuties. Find out why Westview students are looking forward to Valentine’s Day in this week’s paper. New deal. Estevan police have a new three-year deal.

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“Obviously we’re twins, but we’re mainly best friends, and we both put a lot of time into the game,” said Knapp. “We’ve played a little bit on different teams, and it means the world to come together with two of our other best friends and have this kind of success.”

The Knapp brothers been curling together for 23 years, except for a twoyear hiatus.

Scotties-Tankard provincials to have lasting impact on curling in Estevan

‘We’re a go.’ Major announcement for geothermal power in the southeast.

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By David Willberg

The organizing committee for the Scotties-Tankard provincial women’s and men’s curling cham-

pionships are thrilled with the support for the event.

The Viterra Scotties Tournament of Hearts women’s provincials were held in Estevan from Jan.

25-29, and the SaskTel Tankard men’s event ran from Feb. 1-5. Twelve teams were entered in each.

Organizing committee chairman Devon Fornwald

said the committee and volunteers were terrific. People were coming to them on the last day of Tankard to see if they could help out in any fashion. The organizing

committee, who could be seen throughout the tournaments wearing their blue jackets, made his job easier because of the work they do.

Trent Knapp, Mike Armstrong, Brennen Jones, Kelly Knapp, Dustin Kidby and Brian McCusker celebrate after winning the SaskTel Tankard in Estevan. Photos by David Willberg

Members of the organizing committee for the Scotties-Tankard gather for a group photo after the final game.

Photo by David Willberg

Dustin Kidby is their alternate and Brian McCusker is the coach.

They were the only Regina team entered at provincials, as most of the teams were from Saskatoon.

« A1 Laycock, competing out of the Swift Current Curling Club, won the Tankard when it was last held in Estevan in 2018. It was also Laycock’s last appearance at the Tankard, as he spent a few years curling out of B.C. He has represented Saskatchewan seven times at provincials.

While most of the games at this year’s Tankard were high-scoring with lots of rocks in play, this one was relatively low scoring, which kept the play moving quickly. The first two ends were blanked, although there were a number of stones in the house in the first end.

Knapp drew to the back eight-foot ring in the third end to lead 1-0. Laycock scored two in the fourth – an end in which both teams had lots of rocks in the house.

Knapp responded with one in the fifth.

Laycock took the lead back with one in the sixth. After a blank end in seven, Knapp scored two in eight to lead 4-3. Laycock came back with one in nine.

Laycock had the lone rock in the house prior to Knapp’s final shot in the 10th end.

Knapp successfully pulled off a hit and stick on Laycock’s rock to seal the provincial title.

“It’s run pretty smoothly. If there was a little hiccup, they were right there to give a hand,” said Fornwald. Working with CurlSask also went smoothly, he said, and the officials were wonderful.

He also came away marvelling at the skill of the athletes who entered.

“Our curlers, both in the women’s and the men’s, are

“It was a well-curled game by both teams, actually,” said Knapp. “There were a couple of misses out there, but for the most part it was pretty clean.”

Knapp had said before he wanted to be a skip so he could throw the last rock.

“I’ve had the chance to make a few big shots before this, but none quite like this of course, but those ones definitely prepared me to settle into the hack and just get into the zone,” said Knapp.

Blanking the first two ends was important, he said, because they cut the 10-end game to eight.

“The turning point was our deuce in the eighth end. The guys played such a good end and then finished off the job there.”

After the game, Knapp thanked the people of Estevan for putting on a great event.

“It was such an incredible Tankard,” he said. “The volunteers were all so nice. Everything was super organized. The ice, the venue, I honestly can’t say [there was] one flaw with the whole week. We’re just so grateful to Estevan.”

The final marked the third meeting of the Tankard between the two teams. Knapp

some of the best curlers in Canada, so in the Brier and Scotties [national events] they could be right up there near the top of both. So, we have a good chance of being in the playoffs at the Scotties and Brier, and possibly even winning one of them,” said Fornwald.

A total of 9,682 people attended between the 24 draws for the Scotties-Tankard, but that number doesn’t include

rallied from a 6-2 deficit after five ends to defeat Laycock 9-7 in the A event on Thursday morning.

The other matchup wasn’t close, as Knapp beat Laycock 9-4 in eight ends Saturday night in the battle of the top two seeds in the tournament. Knapp won the A event while Laycock won the B.

“We knew those guys were going to be tough. We had played those guys once this year already and they kicked the crap out of us. That was for sure the best game they played against us tonight, so we had to bring our best, too.”

With the win Saturday night, Knapp advanced directly to Sunday afternoon’s final, while Laycock had to play in the semifinal on Sunday morning, which he won 11-8 over Jason Jacobson, thanks to four in the 10th.

It’s been a strong year for the Knapp rink on the Saskatchewan Curling Tour. They won four times and were a top-ranked team entering provincials.

“We were super comfortable coming here together. There was nothing odd or awkward. We just built a lot of momentum throughout the year, to the point where

the volunteers and officials present each day. Fornwald thought the event passes, at $125 each, were an inexpensive way to watch the games, as it worked out to just over $5 per draw.

They also had more than 819 students attend the Thursday and Friday morning draws.

“Those kids brought so much energy to the crowd. It was incredible,” said Fornwald. The kids that were in the front row, the curlers were coming by and highfiving them. Those curlers that did that, they instantly had all those young people in the front there. They were

we’ve won four events here, so why don’t we go win this one as well?”

The Knapp rink will advance to the Tim Hortons Brier national event, which will be held in London, Ont., from March 3-12. They will

all instant fans of that curling team. They cheered even harder for them.”

He wishes they could have brought in 200 or 300 kids for every draw.

Entertainment was held at The Patch, with food, drinks, games, musical Bingo known as Singo on Thursday nights, and cabarets on Friday and Saturday nights.

“The crowds were really good. Last night [Feb. 4] was the biggest crowd we had. I would suspect we had 400 or possibly even 500 people come in last night and have a good time.”

The cabarets and the 5050 ticket sales were fund-

be looking to win Saskatchewan’s first national curling championship since Rick Folk in 1980.

Knapp said they’re not going for a participation ribbon.

“Obviously there is some

raisers for the curling club and its programs.

Fornwald hopes the provincial tournament can have a big impact on curling in the community. It could lead to another event through CurlCanada; Estevan hosted the Home Hardware Canada Cup of Curling in December 2018.

“Everybody across the country in the curling organization, they see what we’re doing,” said Fornwald.

Volunteers have asked what the next big event will be and if Estevan can do something bigger. It was encouraging to see these hard-working people already looking forward to the next event, he said.

“After a big event like this, two weeks in a row, our volunteers are still all hyped up about the curling. The fans, a lot of the fans are asking us when’s the next big event.”

CurlCanada events, the Pinty’s Grand Slam of Curling and even the World Curling Federation would be options.

“It’s exciting to get back into the swing of having these full-blown events, and getting the people out here, and as we see from the crowds, the fans and the curlers … the coaches and the families say ‘This is probably one of the best events, the best facilities

incredible teams out there, but maybe in a year where new teams are forming, this is a good year that we can go in. We have experience as a group and we have to handle the nerves like we did tonight,” said Knapp.

we’ve ever curled in,’ and some of them have curled across Canada. They say we need to put another event on,” said Fornwald.

Fornwald expects the Scotties-Tankard to have a considerable economic spinoff thanks to all of the people that came to the community.The hotels, bars and restaurants all benefitted.

The businesses around the city showed lots of support through sponsorships.

Shortly after the closing ceremonies for the Tankard, the process of converting Affinity Place back to a hockey arena began. Many people started removing the equipment that had been installed on the ice such as carpet, tables, chairs, scoreboards, clocks and more.

Then the City of Estevan crews moved in to convert the ice surface back to hockey. Fornwald believes it was to be finished by Wednesday afternoon.

“Thanks to the city for providing us with this great venue and all the support they give us. We couldn’t do it without them.”

He said it was sad to see when Sunday night arrived and the event was over after all of the planning to make it a success.

Brayden Stewart, left, and Shaun Meachem sweep for Team Laycock during Sunday’s final.

Many hunters and anglers saluted during Estevan Wildlife Federation’s annual awards night

By David Willberg

The Estevan Wildlife Federation (EWF) handed out trophies and certificates during the organization’s annual awards night Saturday at the Estevan Exhibition Association’s building.

In the junior birds division, Kade Skuce had the top sharp-tail grouse at two pounds and 2.36 ounces, mallard duck (two pounds and 14 ounces) and pheasant (total score of 61 with 39 bars and a tail length of 22 inches).

Logan Skuce had the largest Hungarian partridge (one pound, one ounce).

In senior birds, Murray Mosley had the top mallard duck (three pounds, eight ounces), snow goose (six pounds, one ounce) and white-fronted goose (six pounds, five ounces).

Other winners were Kyle Skuce, Hungarian partridge (one pound); Jarred Skuce, sharp-tail grouse (two pounds, three ounces); and Dustin DeBruyne, pheasant (total scored of 68 5/8, thanks to a score of 44 bars and a 24 5/8-inch tail length).

Mosley also brought home several awards in adult fishing, including perch (one pound, eight ounces), walleye (seven pounds, two ounces), northern pike (16 pounds, eight ounces), splake (one pound, 11 ounces), tiger trout (one pound, 13 ounces) and rainbow trout (two pounds, 14 ounces).

Josh Michel had the largest large-mouth bass (four pounds, one ounce).

There were no entries for junior fish this year. EWF president Wanda Michel encouraged the audience to submit entries for those categories, and reminded the youths to tell their parents to take them fishing.

First-place finishers in senior big-game archery were Ken Chipley, typical whitetail deer with a score of 142 and antelope at 67 6/8; Garry Leslie, non-typical whitetail deer, 139; Nick Hirkala, typical mule deer, 134 2/8; Tim Katsantonis, non-typical mule deer, 188 3/8; and Tija Donovan, 18 13/16. Chipley won the Bowhunter of the Year Award with a combined score of 224.7 for his antelope and typical whitetail deer.

In junior rifle, winners were Kade Skuce, non-typical whitetail deer, 152, and black bear, 21 4/16; Caleb Van De Woestyne, typical whitetail deer, 148; and Prysm Gooding, non-typical mule deer, 205 6/8.

Women’s big game rifle winners were Casi Schlap-

kohl, typical whitetail deer, 152 1/2, Tara Katsantonis, typical elk, 212; and Krislyn Pylychaty, black bear, 18 7/16.

In men’s big-game rifle, the trophy winners were Jayden Van De Woestyne, non-typical whitetail deer, 169 1/8, and antelope, 70 2/8; Jesse Bourassa, typical whitetail deer, 164 6/8; Jeff Mosley Jr., typical mule deer, 142 7/8; Jarrett Daoust, non-typical mule deer, 182 7/8; Garrett Mehler, typical elk, 294 2/8; Jay Curtis, moose, 152 5/8; and Cameron Donovan, black bear, 21 6/16.

Photography award winners were Melina Shepley, senior wildlife and photo of the year; Lena Hayward, junior scenic and junior wildlife; and Fay Bonthoux, senior scenic.

Certificates were presented to second and third place finishers in the various categories.

Wanda Michel noted the total number of entries was down last year, and hunting licences were down about 20 per cent in Saskatchewan. She cited the trespass laws that have come into effect in Saskatchewan.

She also pointed out a number of other things to the crowd. The EWF is responsible for the marina at Rafferty Dam, which allows

people to have a free site for hiking, boating, fishing and enjoying the sunsets.

Numerous people and businesses put in the effort to make the area enjoyable. Donations are accepted.

The clubhouse at the EWF grounds and the kitchen are available for rent. The fish filleting shack at Boundary Dam is up and running. Upgrades are happening at the gun range, and the EWF hopes they will be finished in the spring.

The EWF will host its annual Conservation Camp in the summer.

Michel noted they started an antler collection program last year. She knows a lot of people at the awards night collect their antlers but are now running out of storage room.

“We are collecting them so we can sell them and buy habitat,” said Michel. “And if you were lucky enough to go out hunting this [past] year, with the trespassing laws, I know how much you appreciated being able to go on some wildlife lands without having to worry about getting permission,” said Michel. The more land they have, the more opportunities there will be for hunting.

The EWF hopes to have Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation executive director Darrell Crabbe come to Estevan to speak to the EWF members at a meet and greet. He will talk about the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation’s efforts and the trespass laws.

Award recipients for big game rifle were, from left, Tara Katsantonis, Casi Schlapkohl, Jesse Bourassa, Krislyn Pylychaty, Kade Skuce, Caleb Van De Woestyne and Jayden Van De Woestyne

left, Lena Hayward, Melina Shepley and Fay Bonthoux won awards for photography.

Award winners for fish were, from left, Jarrad, Kade, Logan and Kyle Skuce and Dustin DeBruyne

Award winners for big game archery were, from left, Garry Leslie, Cameron Donovan, Ken Chipley, Tim Katsantonis and Tija Donovan

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EDITORIAL

What will be the next big event?

The final rocks have been thrown and the curling ice has been removed from Affinity Place.

By all accounts, the 2023 Scotties-Tankard provincial championships, with its tagline of “Back to Back, Rockin’ the Hack” – were a hit. Conversations with representatives of CurlSask, the Estevan Curling Club and others resulted in rave reviews for the facility, the ice, the calibre of the curling, the entertainment at The Patch, the volunteers, and the organization of the event.

There will always be things that could be improved if given the opportunity – we’d like to see bigger names and numbers for the eastend scoreboard – but there were no glaring red flags that came up during the two weeks, at least from our perspective.

It’s another testament to what can be done when Estevan is given a chance to host a bigticket event, whether it be sports, entertainment or a convention.

Now the lingering question is what’s next.

In the past 12 months, Estevan has hosted a national hockey championship, four provincial curling events, three Western Canadian baseball championships, conventions and other events. We’ve seen the fair and rodeo finally come together for the Energy City Ex. and we were the winners of the Sirius-XM Music Towns competition for Western Canada. We’ve had a lot happening.

Right now, above all else, we can use a breather. When you host events like the Scotties-Tankard, which are largely volunteer driven, it can be taxing. And many of those volunteers at the Scotties-Tankard were at the Centennial Cup or the Western Canada ball tournament or something else.

And with just over two months remaining in the ice sports season, the hockey and figure skating clubs need to be given a chance to finish their campaigns without further interruption or inconvenience. Many of the local hockey teams haven’t had a home game for three weeks.

In terms of what’s next for curling, there’s plenty of great events that could be held in Estevan. We’re not big enough to host the national Scotties Tournament of Hearts or Tim Hortons Brier or the ensuing men’s and women’s world championships.

But there are other options out there. We held the Home Hardware Canada Cup in December 2018. Other CurlCanada events or the Pinty’s Grand Slam of Curling might be on the table. We have everything that would be needed for these competitions, from the venue to the hotels to the volunteer base.

You wouldn’t want to have one of these events every year; you’d risk burning out the volunteers. And you have to be careful not to inconvenience the other users at Affinity Place for too long. But you could have some-

thing every two or three years that would run over five to seven days and really showcase our community.

It would have been nice to have more people at the Scotties and the Tankard. And in a venue the size of Affinity Place, if you have 500 people present, it looks empty.

But let’s be clear: the number of people did not reflect the level of interest in the event in the community. A lot of people were talking about the Scotties and the Tankard, the great curling and what it will mean for the community. Some people who bought event passes for both might have only made it to a handful of draws. But at $125 for an event pass, even if you went to half of the 24 draws, you still had a pretty good deal.

And with the Scotties and the Tankard back to back, it likely split the crowds. Lots of local youths were able to attend the games during the weekday morning draws, bringing energy to the rink and giving these kids exposure to a sport that can be a lot of fun for life.

Everyone who was involved with these events will need to reflect, debrief and think about next time. But the Scotties-Tankard was still a tremendous success. The economic impact was undeniable. And it once again proved what Estevan and its people are capable of. We should all be very, very proud.

Land of milk, honey and guns

Life recently took me thousands of kilometres away from Estevan for an amazing adventure. After hours in the air (which was by design and not because of any complications) I arrived at the land of milk and honey.

This metaphor is sometimes used to describe the U.S., as generations of immigrants (especially more religious people) saw North America as a fabled land of milk and honey, where they hoped to grow a new world and a new society free of the evils and sins of the old countries. But as you may have guessed I went way farther than the States and ended up on the Biblical “land flowing with milk and honey” – in Israel.

I had visited it twice before, and yet every time I go to the promised land, over and over again it amazes me with its uniqueness. Located in Africa, it looks like a blooming oasis and is the only country that today has more trees than 50 years ago.

It has the Dead Sea which is the lowest point on Earth, where not only the level of water is below the sea level, but the planes patrolling the border with Jordan fly “underwater”. And of course, it’s so dense that you can only float on top of it.

Israel is as different as any other place I’ve visited, as it is connected and important to millions of people all around the world. Almost 30 times smaller than Saskatchewan, this country has so much history that a lifetime is not enough to touch even a tenth of it. It has the most museums per capita in the world, and with its historical value, I’d say the entire country is the museum of humankind. Its contemporary history, built on repatriation and permanent resistance, makes the country even more fascinating. It’s also the only liberal democracy in the Middle East. Israeli history is long, but the contemporary state is young and progressive. It pays a lot of attention to preserving the past, but it is also focused on development and is one of

Ana Bykhovskaia

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the most technologically advanced countries in the world.

But another thing that stands out in the Jewish state is its military system, which caught my attention even more during my visit this time.

I’ve always known that Israel has a strong army to maintain their position in the Middle East. Since it declared independence in 1948, in just over 70 years, the State of Israel has fought eight recognized wars with its neighbouring Arab states, two major Palestinian Arab uprisings (First and Second Intifada) and was a part of many other armed engagements.

Israel Defence Forces has been created as the national military for the state eight days after it was incepted. Being a small country, Israel always needed its entire population to defend their borders, so since its formation, the IDF has not just been a conscript military, but it also has had regulated conscription of women, which makes it unique among other militaries in the world.

Whenever I visited the country, one of the first impressions I had was that the state was ready to defend itself any minute. Wherever I went, there were a lot of soldiers wearing uniforms and carrying guns. Battle planes flew over my head several times (locals wouldn’t even look up, let alone get worried) and the state border (if I remember right, it was by Syria) was nothing similar to what Canadians are used to – it was protected by tall fortified barbwire fences and looked indeed dangerous to approach.

I definitely didn’t feel comfortable being in a crowd that consisted of 10-15 per cent soldiers during my previous visits, but this time it was

worse. Israelis experienced two public shootings just days before my plane landed in Tel Aviv, and the terrorism threat level went up, so the atmosphere changed, too.

My girlfriends and I were walking in the park when a guy wearing shorts, a T-shirt, flip flops and carrying a machine gun (at least that’s how it looked to me) came from around the corner right at us. I think my heart paused for a few minutes as he went by us and then disappeared from our sight.

We were shocked but kept on with our walk, which brought us to a small falafel place in the Old Jaffa. After the rain, the place was empty when another man wearing civilian clothes and carrying a gun came in as we were enjoying supper. This time the food got stuck in my throat as my heart was rushing out of my chest. I’m not a big fan of guns to begin with, but coming across them twice in a row in such circumstances was definitely too much. The guy ordered some food and quietly took a far table. None of us said a word. We finished supper and left.

Our heart rates returned to normal only when we made it back to the embankment. But my ears were still automatically scanning the surroundings for sounds of gunfire, when a friend who’s lived in Tel-Aviv for a year now joined us and explained that what we’d encountered was normal and absolutely safe.

Apparently, when the terrorism threat level goes up, citizens that have gun permits and own guns are encouraged if not obligated to carry them. He noted that with the conscription system, most citizens serve in the army for two or three years, and a lot of attacks get interrupted by civilians.

The new information made sense and to a point normalized the situation, but after four days in Israel, I once again left thinking that life, when carrying a gun becomes a norm, is something I don’t ever want to accept or experience as a norm.

Common sense actually prevailed

David Willberg Willberg’s World

Those who have been lobbying against the proposed amendments to the federal government’s Bill C-21 handgun ban received some good news late last week, when the feds announced it was scrapping the baffling changes.

The amendment would have added even more firearms to the list of those banned in Canada, making criminals out of many more Canadians. And it would have enshrined the changes within the Criminal Code, which would have made it much more difficult for future governments to change.

Granted, there were a lot of people opposed to Bill C-21, too, and they would want to see that legislation scrapped, too, but when it comes to dealing with the feds, you have to take every victory you can get.

The amendments to Bill C-21 seemed doomed from the start. Not only was it viewed by many as onerous and overbearing, but the federal government found itself finetuning the changes.

It seemed lost on certain people within the federal government that far more Canadians will use a firearm as a tool than as a weapon on a daily basis.

You have to wonder how much taxpayer money was wasted on discussing and studying these amendments. How much time did MPs waste on discussing these changes with constituents, listening to lobbyists, researching the issue and attending committee meetings?

Perhaps the Liberal backbencher who brought the amendments forward should repay some of the money that went towards this government waste.

Firearm ownership is one of those issues that requires the government to find a balance. An overly restrictive isn’t going to work. All you’re going to do is make responsible, honest gun owners criminals when they have done nothing wrong.

And you won’t stop people from getting guns if they really want them, and using them for illegal purposes.

Ban all firearms? That’s absurd, although there are some out there clueless enough to suggest such a concept.

But you can’t go too far in the opposite direction, either. All you have to do is look at our neighbours to the south to see what happens when the firearm laws are too permissive.

It’s one of those challenges that stares every government in the face.

Bill C-21 in and of itself goes too far, and these amendments would have been worse.

For example, the alterations to C-21 would have banned any rifle or shotgun that could accept a magazine with more than five rounds, whether it actually has such a magazine or not. And it also intended to ban long guns that generate more than 10,000 joules of energy, or any gun with a muzzle wider than 20 millimetres.

Many firearms would have eventually become illegal.

I’m sure it would have made certain urbanites happy to have all these additional firearms banned. I’m sure they want even more on the banned list. These people don’t understand that a gun can be a tool. And I’m guessing that a lot of them think hunting should be illegal.

These people don’t know anything about rural areas.

And while most of our population is now concentrated in large urban settings, a government has to do better than just buckle to the whims of those who live in big cities.

The amendments drew concerns from rural residents and Indigenous people. The opposition NDP and Bloc Quebecois were also opposed to the measures, which effectively killed the changes. Of course, the opposition Conservative Party was also opposed.

As I’ve said before, I’m not a gun owner. I likely never will be a gun owner. Given my eyesight issues, it’s likely in everyone’s best interests that I not operate firearms or go hunting. And I can think of other things I’d rather have for displays or collections, such as artwork or books.

(Becoming a collector of military items fascinates me, which would cause me to own guns for display purposes tune. But then I’d need a much larger condo).

I believe that people have the right to have firearms, within reason. There needs to be some limitations, within reason. There are some firearms that the average citizen has no need to own, regardless of purpose.

But my list of firearms for the banned list would be much smaller than the federal government’s.

I doubt that this is the end of this debate, and the feds might try to reintroduce some amendments. If they do, we’ll be in for this unnecessary discussion all over again.

New three-year contract for Estevan Police Service members

By David Willberg

The Estevan Police Association (EPS) has reached a new threeyear collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the Estevan board of police commissioners.

The pact is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2022, and includes a retroactive three per cent wage increase for 2022, another three per cent hike for 2023 and a four per cent bump in 2024. The deal expires on Dec. 31 of next year.

A wage increase for the police was factored into the 2023 budget.

EPA president Kevin Reed said maternity, paternity and adoption leave was fairly outdated in the previous agreement, so it has been adjusted to be in line with the new federal guidelines. The new CBA also changed how annual leave was allotted for members, based on the years of service.

“It was old wording from a long time ago, and it just needed to be updated,

so that was a big change,” said Reed.

He was pleased with how negotiations went. They met for the first time on Oct. 27, 2022, and had two subsequent meetings before reaching the deal. Reed said the association’s members were pleased with what the negotiating committee presented.

“When you’re negotiating agreements, and you’re negotiating for years down the road, especially right now when we have inflation rates the way they are, you’re always apprehensive as to whether you’re negotiating appropriately, but we were confident that signing to the end of ’24, the numbers that we got will be sufficient,” said Reed.

The EPS wants wage increases that are similar to what the other five municipal policing agencies receive.

“You can’t very well go to an employer and ask for a substantially larger raise than what your comparators have,” said Reed.

Mayor Roy Ludwig, who is also the chairman for the police board, said the negotiations were better this time than the last negotiations, when the local police worked 2019 and the vast majority of 2020 without a CBA, and the two sides had to go to mediation before a new contract was settled.

“There were just so many issues that we could not come to an agreement on [last time], unfortunately. It went to arbitration, and of course, we would rather negotiate a collective agreement than go to arbitration, because it’s expensive for both parties, and then both parties are usually not overly satisfied with the end result,” said Ludwig.

The mayor noted there were more issues to be dealt with in the last negotiations. This time they were able to move forward in a better fashion.

Reed said there was a stalemate very quickly in the last CBA negotiations that resulted in arbitration.

“Everybody came with an open mind [this time] and listened to each other,” said Reed.

The police union presidents is pleased they won’t have to go back to negotiations again for another two years.

“Wage increases boost morale, always, but it’s a short-term boost. It is nice to know that it’s settled and your employer appreciates the work you’re doing, and you’re able to come to an agreement fairly quickly.”

A new CBA was announced in late January between the city and CUPE Local 726, which represents the city’s unionized employees. Ludwig said the city can now focus on other matters than bargaining meetings.

“I know our employees at the city and the police members will be happier that those collective agreements are settled, and we can move forward now and concentrate … on everyone doing a good job,” said Ludwig.

Aquistore project near Estevan hits a 500,000-tonne milestone

The Petroleum Technology Research Centre (PTRC) announced on Feb. 1 that the Aquistore deep saline carbon dioxide (CO2) storage project, located three kilometres from SaskPower’s Boundary Dam Power Station, has reached an impressive milestone.

It has permanently stored 500,000 tonnes of CO2 while Boundary Dam produces over 120 megawatts of clean, baseload electricity.

“This represents a major success story for Saskatchewan,” said Ranjith Narayanasamy, the CEO and president of the PTRC.

“Ten per cent of the total amount of CO2 captured at Boundary Dam has been injected via the Aquistore well, into the Deadwood deep saline formation some 3,200 metres underground for permanent storage.

“This is the first project in the world to successfully store CO2 in a deep saline aquifer from a coalfired power plant, and also shows clearly CO2 storage is safe and a part of climate change mitigation.”

The 500,000-tonne milestone is equivalent to taking 125,000 vehicles off the road for one year.

Aquistore is the largest industrial-scale test facility in the world for studying the measurement and monitoring of stored CO2 in a deep saline formation, and it has been a bellwether project for companies and governments only now looking to CCS as a viable

solution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

“Aquistore began injection in 2015,” said Erik Nickel, director of operations at the PTRC and senior manager of the Aquistore research team, “and we have partnered with proponents of new CCS projects in Alberta, Saskatchewan and throughout the world, who are seeking Aquistore learnings as they begin to move towards injection.

“We were first off the mark, and our practical knowledge and learnings are proving of critical importance to other projects.”

A majority of Boundary Dam’s CO2 has been sold by SaskPower to Whitecap for enhanced oil recovery, but the Aquistore program has been what the PTRC called an “equally important proving ground for the permanent disposal of CO2,” and has received a

steady stream of 200-500 tonnes per day to help drive the program.

“Its learnings related to the stopping and starting of injection, monitoring of pressure and geochemical changes – seismic imaging deep in the subsurface – and modelling of CO2 movement are all worldleading research,” PTRC said in a news release.

The milestone of 500,000 tonnes underground has demonstrated the safety of such CO2 storage. With over 30 measurement and monitoring technologies deployed on site, the project has been demonstrating the efficacy of some technologies over others, and helping to reduce the cost of CCS overall.

The PTRC said partners over the years have included companies and research groups from Japan, Korea,

Canada, the United States, Australia and Europe.

“Aquistore is the first, but certainly won’t be the last, deep saline CO2 storage project in Canada,” said Narayanasamy. “The real excitement rests in the importance of Aquistore in informing the future of CCS as more and more projects come on stream in North America.

“PTRC’s knowledge and expertise has never been more in demand. In fact, we are in the process of rolling out a course on CCS for industry and others that employs some of our findings from Aquistore.

“COP 27 clearly stated that CCUS is very important to achieve 2050 net-zero targets, and I am proud of our lead in this area. We must work to continue Saskatchewan’s advantage in the CCUS world.”

The Aquistore injection well site. Photo courtesy of the PTRC

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Estevan MLA faces lots of questions from chamber members during Coffee Talk visit

By David Willberg

The future of coal-fired power, the shortage of available child-care spaces and healthcare employee shortages were among the issues tackled by Estevan MLA Lori Carr during a Feb. 1 speech at the Estevan Chamber of Commerce’s coffee talk.

A few dozen people gathered at the Days Inn for Carr’s address. After initial opening remarks, the question and answer session began.

She told the crowd that federally-imposed parameters around emissions have made it more difficult to run coal-fired plants in 2030.

“We can sit around and wait for change in the federal government leadership, or pray and hope they change the regulations they have in place, but there are no guarantees that any of that will happen.

That why we need to plan for the future with the regulations that are in place for this current time,” she said.

This is why she said the provincial government is investigating the possibility of two modular nuclear reactors. The Estevan area is one of the finalists to be the site.

“We know this makes sense because the Estevan area has the infrastructure necessary to power the province, as we have for decades and will … for decades to come,” said Carr.

The site selection is expected to be made in 2024, but a final decision whether to proceed won’t happen until 2029.

The work force can be retooled to be trained for different types of power production, she said.

SaskPower is also looking if the Shand Power Station can be converted from coal to natural gas.

“We have over 1,200 megawatts of transmission line in the Estevan area,” said Carr.

“Those 1,200 megawatts will be used in the future. It’s just a matter of seeing what that exactly looks like.”

Mayor Roy Ludwig asked if the province could get the city, the federal government and SaskPower together so the city can make more decisions about the future of the community.

“We’ll maybe need your help, the province’s help, so we can have these meetings sooner than later, and discuss the road map for what that looks like,” said Ludwig.

Carr replied SaskPower is working on what that road map might look like with the regulations, which she said are always changing.

“There’s no guarantee that even if we get a change in administration at the federal level, that parameters will change to the point where we can just continue doing what we’re doing,” she said.

Due to uncertainty with the future of coal-fired production, Carr admitted SaskPower has had a difficult time keeping employees in the Estevan area. The Crown corporation has been told that people need hope there will be jobs in the Estevan area in the future. She

hopes a plan will be released in the next few months.

“With those employees, we need to find ways to keep them here so that they don’t move on to other opportunities,” said Carr.

Chamber executive director Jackie Wall said there are employees at Westmoreland Mining LLC who have been getting very good offers because the trades are in such high demand. Turnover is becoming an issue.

Ludwig said the city wants to see the mines continue to operate with coal-fired power until the SMRs come online, which would be 2034 at the earliest.

The provincial government has been trying to explain to the province how its power grid works, Carr said, because it doesn’t have access to hydroelectricity like Manitoba. This

province’s water isn’t as suitable as Manitoba’s, either.

Ludwig suggested investigating other uses for lignite coal, such as graphite, which is a big part of battery production.

“Coal is such an unbelievable resource. We don’t necessarily have to burn it. If we could look at some of these options to keep the mine running, that would be good,” he said.

Carr pointed out that Coronach is working with a private company to find other ways to use coal. If they’re successful, then some might be applicable here. But she also thinks Westmoreland should step forward on the innovation and investment front for coal uses other than energy production.

The provincial government is encouraging trade offices to build here and bring employ-

ees to the Estevan to ensure jobs stay in Saskatchewan. As for value-added materials, they would have to happen in partnership with private industry.

“We have tons of incentives in place for companies that are going to be doing private builds,” said Carr.

Recruitment and retention of employees is also a challenge. Carr noted her daughter recently had a baby, and was told on Fridays that if she went into labour, she had to go to Regina. Carr noted it was due to a shortage of nurses rather than doctors. The government released a Health and Human Resource Plan last year to address the issue.

“We’re going to recruit, we’re going to try to train people, we’re going to incentivize people to actually go to the regions that aren’t necessarily the regions they would go to,” said Carr.

Wall noted there are nurses in Estevan on maternity leave who want to go to work, but can’t due to a lack of day care spaces. Wall encountered the lack of child-care spaces 15 years ago when her children were young.

“I hear about day care every now and then in my office. Most recently I just heard about it again,” said Carr. “The daycares that are in place are not run by the government. We actually give licences. It’s all non-profit organizations or private industries that actually get these day cares up and running.”

The provincial and federal governments have agreed to a $10 per day agreement for day cares, but Carr said every day care isn’t licensed to qualify. An online course to get the licence should help with the needs.

Cory Casemore, who has five kids, including three in day care, noted turnover is a big issue in what is a high-stress job.

“The support that they receive is not making it enough incentive for those people that are there to stay, because the cost of living is going up, and the amount that they’re being paid – they can go work elsewhere and make the same amount,” said Casemore.

One day care board member noted many day cares are in a position in which they can’t take any babies. She noted they asked the city to see if they could get help to start a school-aged day care.

Carr said a new day care would be the answer, but the challenge will be finding staff

People in attendance voiced a desire to focus more on spaces for those ages six to 10.

Carr also cited some employment numbers, with 576,800 people working in the province last year, and the 67.2 per cent labour force participation rate. But she recognizes the staffing issues businesses are facing.

“I’m sure everyone in the room can say ‘We’ve got jobs for you. Just apply and we can find a spot for you,’” said Carr. The chamber hosts the Coffee Talk the first Wednesday of each month.

Money Matters: Financial management tips for retirees

What constitutes a perfect retirement is different for everyone.

Some people may imagine spending their golden years fishing their days away, while

others might aspire to finally embrace their inner globetrotter. Though individuals’ retirement dreams differ, every retiree will need money, which only underscores the importance of

a wise and disciplined approach to money management.

Average life expectancies have risen considerably over the last several decades. The average life expectancy in Canada

for both genders is just under 83 years. Those figures are a welcome sign, but they may inspire a little fear among seniors who are concerned that they might outlive their money.

Nobody knows how long they will live, but everyone can embrace a handful of money management strategies to increase the chances that they won’t feel a financial pinch in retirement.

•Study up on the tax implications of withdrawing from your retirement accounts. Every retirement investment vehicle has tax implications. Money withdrawn too early may incur tax penalties, and even money withdrawn long past retirement age could elevate retirees into a new tax bracket that could prove costly.

A financial advisor can help retirees determine the tax implications of withdrawing money from their retirement accounts and may even develop a detailed guideline of when withdrawals should be made and how much should be with-

drawn in a given year in order to minimize tax liabilities.

•Prioritize your own needs. Though retirees, particularly those with children and grandchildren, may feel an obligation to help their families in difficult financial times, generosity can be very costly for adults who have stopped working. Retirees may or may not have opportunities to generate new income, and even those who do likely won’t make enough to meet their daily financial needs.

Given that reality, retirees must prioritize their own financial needs, including their immediate needs and those they will have for the rest of their lives. Though it might be difficult to turn down loved ones’ requests for financial help, retirees must make sure they can pay their bills and maintain a quality of life that won’t jeopardize their long-term health.

•Examine your housing situation. Equity in a home is a feather in the cap of many retirees. Retirees who own their homes and live in locations with high property taxes might

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be able to cash in on their equity by selling their homes and downsizing to a smaller home with lower property taxes. If moving is not a consideration, discuss a reverse mortgage with a financial advisor. A trusted financial advisor can highlight the advantages and disadvantages of reverse mortgages, which are a great option for some people to improve their financial well-being in retirement.

•Stick to a budget during retirement. Roughly 70 per cent of individuals who turn 65 will need long-term care in their lifetimes. That’s just one expense retirees must budget for, and it’s more sizable than some people may recognize.

Budgeting and avoiding overspending can ensure retirees have the money they need when they need it.

No one wants to outlive their money in retirement. Various strategies can help retirees effectively manage their money so they can enjoy their golden years without having to worry about their finances.

Estevan MLA Lori Carr addressed the Estevan Chamber of Commerce during an appearance through the Coffee Talk series. Photo by Pat Pasloski

‘We are a go’: Deep Earth geothermal project announces a significant milestone

Deep Earth Energy Production Corp. (DEEP) has announced that a strategy for the engineering, construction and commissioning of its first 25-megawatt (MW) geothermal project in southeast Saskatchewan has been finalized.

Engineering and procurement activities have commenced, DEEP said in a news release Monday. Field construction is planned for the third quarter of this year.

Geothermal power generation has the capacity to provide renewable, reliable baseload energy, the company said, and the DEEP project in Saskatchewan is anticipated to be the first naturally-sourced geothermal power facility in Canada.

DEEP says it has concluded that the reservoir characteristics could support the construction of multiple geothermal expansion facilities in southeast Saskatchewan over several years.

“We are a go,” said DEEP CEO Kirsten Marcia, who is originally from Estevan. “There is a market that is hungry for truly sustainable, renewable power projects. The technology is proven, the leases are in place and initial government funding is confirmed.”

The facility near Torquay includes a five-megawatt power purchase agreement with SaskPower. It is planned to be constructed in two phases, with five megawatts followed by an additional 20 megawatts at the same location.

Production and injection wells are planned to be drilled to a depth of approximately 3 1/2 kilometres and horizontally for an additional three kilometres.

DEEP says its “ribcage”

layout and geothermal well field design are “leading edge” and might be a “globally transformative application” of modern oil and gas drilling and completions techniques, which DEEP said will be applied for the first time on a renewable energy project.

Wells with equivalent depth, lateral length and step out are routinely drilled in the hydrocarbon resource plays of the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin, and DEEP says it will be leveraging this local knowledge and drilling capability.

The well design also incorporates learnings from DEEP’s five vertical and one horizontal test wells drilled from 2018-2021.

To help prevent corrosion, all wells are engineered to be completed with carbon steel tubing that

incorporates a non-metallic coating.

The subsurface geological reservoir model predicts that the well spacing for the first 25-megawatt field development will utilize only 10 per cent of DEEP’s entire subsurface lease that covers 39,568 hectares (97,775 acres).

This large subsurface lease is anticipated to support the build-out of multiple power facilities greater than 200 megawatts. Twenty-five megawatts is roughly equivalent to the power required to supply 25,000 households.

The geothermal resource is designed to generate power utilizing organic rankine cycle (ORC) technology, which is fast becoming the most deployed technology for new geothermal installations.

Engineering and procurement activities of long lead well and surface facilities items are underway. Licensing and permitting for all well and surface facilities are anticipated to commence in the first quarter of this year.

Field work for a 56.2-square kilometre, three-dimensional seismic program has commenced and is projected to be completed in March. Data will be utilized for horizontal well trajectory planning on the eastern half of the first well array and for future expansion planning.

GeothermEx (SLB) has started a final review of DEEP’s geothermal resource. GeothermEx’s due diligence has resulted in more than 8.5 gigawatts of geothermal power and related investments exceeding US $14 billion.

CCS test facility at Shand vacant for the past 18 months

The carbon capture and storage test facility at SaskPower’s Shand Power Station has been sitting empty since July 2021, but SaskPower says it isn’t giving up one the structure that allows companies to advance their CCS advancements.

“We’re discussing opportunities with any interested companies or parties that want to use that facility,” said Joel Cherry, a media relations and issues management consultant for SaskPower. “We have had some active discussions, so we’re open to the possibility of having another tenant in there.”

The test facility opened in the spring of 2015 with a large celebration. Since that time, two companies have used it to test out their CCS technologies. Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems was the first occupant, as they were partners with SaskPower on the test facility.

The other was Shell CanSolv in 2018.

SaskPower has also made use of the test facility to see how it can benefit its CCS facility at the Boundary Dam Power Station.

Cherry pointed out that the strong year for the CCS facility in 2022 is due in part to the test facility. The CCS project at Boundary Dam had its second-best year on record, capturing 749,035 tonnes of CO2, and it’s on

track for its best fiscal year since opening in 2014. That fiscal year runs from April 1-March 30.

“There is valuable work that can be done there [at the test facility],” said Cherry.

In the case of SaskPower’s research, improvements were made with amine degradation, which has been a recurring issue at Boundary Dam.

“As I understand it, the amine is … as a metaphor, it’s kind of like the oil in a car that needs to be changed once in a while,” said Cherry. “We had to change out that amine more frequently than we initially expected.”

While he wouldn’t say they have reached a breakthrough on the amine front, they have seen improvements through the CCS facility.

He could not get into details on who would be looking at the CCS facility due to confidentiality reasons.

Cherry stressed SaskPower does not have any plans to close the facility despite the lack of a tenant, and an end date for the facility has not been established.

Meanwhile, a decision has not been made on the future of Unit 4 at the Boundary Dam Power Station. The unit was taken offline on Dec. 1, 2021, and was expected to be permanently retired. But the unit has been kept on standby in

case it was still needed, and it has been brought back online several times during the past 14 months.

SaskPower announced last year that Unit 4 would remain an option until Apirl 1, 2023.

“It has proved useful for us during the past year, periods when demand was high or when we’ve had either planned or unplanned outages at other facilities,” said Cherry. “Right now, we’re still assessing and deciding what the next steps are for that facility.”

Unit 4 was last online a few weeks ago, he said.

It has been needed during the winter months, which would be peak power usage time in Saskatchewan, but it would also be brought back online in the summer when there are heat waves that cause peak power usage.

“We plan our outages in such a way that we can always meet our operating reserves, but occasionally we have had an unplanned outage that coincides with the planned outages, and have been able to fill a gap,” said Cherry.

First power production is estimated by the summer of 2024.

In addition to geothermal power production and with proper regulatory approvals, the DEEP subsurface lease contains separate stratigraphic intervals that are anticipated to have the characteristics necessary for CO2 storage.

DEEP says it is exploring strategic CO2 storage opportunities in efforts to develop a major multi-use CO2 storage field.

Two new officers were appointed for the company in 2022: Christie Gradin as chief financial officer and Steve De Maio as chief operating officer. Gradin brings extensive expertise

to DEEP, having held numerous senior financial and management positions in both private and publiclytraded companies.

Previously, she held the position of director of finance and administration at SED Systems and has experience in both the insurance and financial services industries.

She attended the University of Saskatchewan where she obtained her bachelor of commerce degree with great distinction and a master of professional accounting.

De Maio has 29 years of industry experience and has held executive positions for more than two decades. He has built and led multi-disciplined teams of professionals and support staff in the execution of design, drilling, completions, construction, commissioning and operations of steam, water, oil and power production projects totalling over $2 billion in development costs.

His distinct competences include capital projects, design, engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, operations, technology development, corporate and business development, strategy, finance, corporate and economic modelling.

DEEP was named the Exceptional Engineering/ Geoscience Project Award Winner of 2022 by the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan.

DEEP says it is grateful for the ongoing support from Natural Resources Canada, SaskPower and private partners.

Deep Earth Energy Production says it is ready to move forward with the construction phase of a 25-megawatt power facility near Torquay. Photo courtesy of Deep Earth Energy Production

The Warm Welcome Kitchen is going to start serving meals again now that it has hired Donna McGillicky as its new kitchen co-ordinator.

The first meal of the 2022-23 season will be on Feb. 9 at St. Giles Anglican Church. Meals will be served every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:306:30 p.m. Warm Welcome Kitchen board president Wendy Godfrey said they hope to add a second church for meals, so they could alternate locations as they have in the past.

Godfrey noted McGillicky stepped forward after seeing an article that the Mercury ran last month about the kitchen’s need for a new cook.

“Donna has a lot of experience in these types of things. She worked for 10 years over at Creighton

An Estevan man has been charged after the Saskatchewan RCMP’s Moose Jaw Crime Reduction Team (CRT) executed two search warrants at residences in Estevan as part of an ongoing investigation.

The RCMP says they located and seized seven restricted handguns, three semi-automatic firearms and three long-barrelled firearms. One handgun and two of the long-barrelled firearms were loaded. The RCMP said officers described them as being unsafely scattered throughout the residences.

An adult male was arrested at one of the residences.

Alexander Li, 26, from Es-

Lodge, and came with a great recommendation from the folks over there,” said Godfrey. “She has experience in cooking for crowds, along with following the regulations for keeping the kitchen clean.”

It’s a “huge” sense of relief having McGillicky in place, Godfrey said. The previous co-ordinator stepped down last summer. They had three candidates in September, but all three decided it wasn’t the job for them.

“We looked for people, and nobody showed up,” said Godfrey.

They reached the point of wondering if they should close down and stop the Warm Welcome program for good.

“And then Donna got in touch with us, and wanted to apply, and boy, we sure are glad she did,” said Godfrey.

The kitchen is looking

tevan is charged with 12 counts of unsafe storage of a firearm, eight counts of possessing a restricted weapon in a place other than where entitled, and eight counts of unlicensed possession of a restricted firearm with readily-available ammunition.

All charges are under the Criminal Code.

Li made his first appearance in Estevan Provincial Court on Feb. 1. His matters were adjourned to Feb. 6 for a show-cause hearing.

The Estevan Police Service, the Saskatchewan RCMP Integrated Border Enforcement Team and the Estevan RCMP assisted with this continuing investigation.

forward to the start of the season. For the first time since COVID-19 pandemic restrictions hit in March 2020, Warm Welcome will have sit-down meals, as opposed to serving food in take-out containers.

When they ended last year, they were serving 70-

“The seamless partnership between Moose Jaw CRT, other Saskatchewan RCMP units and the Estevan Police Service was pivotal to this investigation,” said Supt. Glenn Church, the officer in charge of Saskatchewan RCMP’s Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Team.

“Together, they’ve removed a significant risk from the community – these firearms were being stored in a careless way.

“Moose Jaw CRT is a new unit and one of its mandates is to disrupt the possession and trafficking of illegal firearms. They’ll continue to work to keep unsafe and illegal guns out of our communities.”

80 take-out meals each time.

“I would guess there would be that many again, but there could be more,” said Godfrey. “Food prices keep going up and up … and that means more people are struggling to pay for food, and will need the help of a free meal or two a week.”

She was getting asked every week by different people about when Warm Welcome would start up again. It served as a reminder that the program is needed in Estevan, not just for those who struggle to afford groceries, but those who come to supper for the social element.

McGillicky, who retired from Creighton Lodge in 2020, said she had been thinking about doing something new for a while. When she saw that the kitchen program was looking for a

co-ordinator, she thought she had the requisite experience and enjoyment of cooking, so she applied.

“I prefer cooking for a larger group than just for the two of us at home,” said McGillicky.

She believes she has cooked for a crowd as large as what she’ll see at Warm Welcome. And McGillicky expects her experience at Creighton Lodge will be beneficial.

And she already has her first meal in mind. If the weather on Feb. 9 is cold and nasty, she will serve up stew for the guests. If it’s a nicer day, which it’s supposed to be, then roast beef will be on the menu.

McGillicky also looks forward to serving up such foods as shepherd’s pie, meatloaf, mashed potatoes, pulled pork, homemade soups and more.

This will be her first involvement with the Warm Welcome Kitchen, but she is familiar with the work they do in the community.

“I look forward to meeting all of the different people,” she said.

Godfrey said they could use more volunteers. With sit-down meals, they need a few extra helpers compared to when it was a to-go supper. Donations would be welcome as well, although they believe they have sufficient funds for this season.

“With prices going up, we’re hopefully in a good place, but we would like to be able to have a little bit in the bank going forward into next season as well,” said Godfrey.

The Warm Welcome Kitchen will wrap up its current season at the end of April.

Donna McGillicky has been hired by the Warm Welcome Kitchen.

Photo submitted

Police seized 13 firearms, some of which were loaded, last week.

Photo courtesy of the Saskatchewan RCMP

The Estevan Salvation Army has started hosting church services in Estevan once again.

Services started happening at the ministry’s Cornerstone Church on a trial basis last October. Capt. Jaclyn Wynne said they have a Sunday morning service at 10:30 a.m., and the same service happens on Tuesday nights at 6 p.m. for those who aren’t able to make it on Sundays.

“We had a couple of services in late October, and then we really started with advent, having services before Christmas, and we’ve continued on since,” said Wynne.

The Salvation Army closed its church in Estevan in 2019 because the officers of the day retired and they didn’t have someone to take their place. Then the pandemic hit and complicated the situation.

The family services program, thrift store, food bank and more have continued in the community since 2019, with Ronza Reynard serving as the director of ministry.

Wynne arrived in Estevan in July 2021 with the intent of resuming a church service in the city.

Services at the Cornerstone Church are quite different. Rather than having live worship music, they have a video so people can sing along. Wynne said if someone had the musical talent to lead worship, the Salvation Army would look at a switch.

Then they have a coffee break and fellowship, followed by a question-andanswer session about the Bible and other topics to get people talking. They have had Bible trivia and questions about the subject of the day. One week had questions about January in general.

Wynne will deliver a 10-minute talk about a subject, followed by further discussion. This past weekend, they started on a series of short talks on some ancient practices of the Christian church, beginning with the Sabbath.

“The main part for me is discussing with each other what we think and what we have learned,” said Wynne.

Wynne noted that before she arrived, the Salvation Army decided to resurrect the church in Estevan, thanks to interest in the community.

“The Salvation called me up and said ‘we want you to move to Estevan and we’re going to try to start up the church.’ They didn’t want it to just be the same thing,” said Wynne. “There are a lot of churches in town, so we want to offer something different. It’s pretty laid back.”

After she arrived in Estevan, it became a 15-month planning process.

“I needed to get to know the community and get to know people within the community. We did that, and we’ve done a few other things as well,” said Wynne.

Also, the sanctuary at the Salvation Army’s building at the intersection of Fourth Street and 11th Avenue is open for people to have a cup of coffee and visit on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Sometimes they get a lot of people who will come

Envision inviting the public to focus groups

The Envision Counselling and Support Centre is looking to understand what type of services are needed throughout southeast Saskatchewan.

As part of its strategic plan, Envision is launching a needs assessment focusing on their coverage area, which encompasses a

What

large portion of the southeast corner of the province. A needs assessment is a way to understand needs or gaps in services in the current programming of an organization, or address areas where new services could be beneficial.

“Our last needs assessment was completed in

2018. Our goal this time is to be able to compare the new data to previous assessments in order to see how the community needs have changed and ensure Envision is properly supporting that growth where we can,” said Envision executive director Lynda Rideout.

What

In order to gather data for this assessment, Envision will hold focus groups within the four communities that its offices are located: Estevan, Weyburn, Carlyle and Oxbow.

“With help from the Estevan United Way and community interagency meetings, we have begun to

identify some of the gaps in support services. This assessment will provide the necessary data we need to ensure that the supports available by Envision are meeting the needs of the communities within our region,” said assistant executive director Laura Melle.

Envision hopes to have

out and other times she is the only person present.

This past fall, they hosted an Alpha program which is for those to want to ask questions and talk about the Christian faith in a non-threatening atmosphere. Supper would be served.

“Questions aren’t judged and you’re not pressured or forced or anything. We play a video and then we just have a discussion,” she said.

They might run it again in the near future.

There was also a griefsharing, faith-based support group for those who have lost a loved one. They also hope to resume it in the next few weeks if there is sufficient interest.

Anybody can attend a service and enjoy the music and the fellowship.

Wynne said she has enjoyed the discussions and the relationships that have been built since the church resumed. One person was thinking of starting to go to church again when the services began.

“We have a lovely community of people,” said Wynne.

community members and partnering agencies attend in person. Sessions will be Feb. 14 in Weyburn, Feb. 23 in Carlyle, March 2 in Oxbow and March 9 in Estevan.

To register for a focus group in your area, please phone 1-306-637-4004, or email info@envisioncounsellingcentre.com.

Capt. Jaclyn Wynne looks forward to seeing people at the Salvation Army Cornerstone Church on Sundays and Tuesdays.

By David Willberg

The addictions treatment centre at St. Joseph’s Hospital has made an impact in the lives of the patients it serves.

Anthony Cafik, who is the manager of the facility, made a presentation alongside Kevin Smith at a recent meeting of Estevan city council. Cafik became emotional when he spoke at times, and there were moments in which council chambers were silent other than the sound of Cafik speaking.

Cafik said it was important to let the community know what they were doing, rather than allowing potential misconceptions to occur.

“Addiction – and I get emotional around this – affects many people, whether it’s someone in addiction, or if it’s someone who’s been affected, whether it be a family member, or has been impacted innocently by addiction,” said Cafik.

He referred to it as a the “modern-day leprosy” because it can be ugly. He recently met with Police Chief Rich Lowen because the Estevan Police Service is on the front lines of dealing with these calls.

“He would like to see their officers and con-

stables being on the front line but understanding what addiction is, because it can be baffling when you see people destroying their lives and those of others.”

It’s important to understand what addiction is and what people are going through.

“At St. Joseph’s, we don’t teach them to stop. Because they can’t. We teach them not to start, because they can,” he said.

Then they teach them what is happening mentally, emotionally and even physically that would cause them to start so they can choose something different.

St. Joseph’s wants to take the person and understand what’s going on with them until they feel safe enough to be honest, and create an atmosphere where patients can talk about abuse, home life, guilt, shame and anything else.

People suffering addictions aren’t just numbers, he said. They’re human beings.

“There’s no escaping the consequences of choices made, whether it’s rational or irrational, because there has to be some consequence,” said Cafik. “I want to say the consequences, whether it be legal, medical or otherwise, are the very

things that will get them help. Not protecting them from their consequences. The police play a vital role in that. The medical system plays a vital role in that. Our family and friends play a vital role in that.”

St. Joseph’s addiction treatment centre is covered under public health-care. Cafik comes from a background in the private sector, and he said it can cost tens of thousands to go to private treatment, something not everyone can afford.

when firefighters were called to assist Estevan EMS and St. Joseph’s Hospital staff members at St. Joe’s with what Deputy Fire Chief Kyle Luc call a lift assist for someone who was being transported to hospital in Regina. When the fire department arrived, their assistance was no longer required, so they returned to the station. The next call was on Feb. 2, when they were called to alarms ringing at a downtown business. Upon arrival, there was no fire and it was determined to be an issue with

St. Joseph’s has the level of care found in a private setting while still being affordable.

“We look at the whole picture with a full clinical team, and we look at the environment in which they go back, and if they’re going to go back to a dysfunctional home, if they’re going to go back to old friends, they are not going to be successful,” said Cafik.

They work with the housing authority in Este-

van to provide another level of care. It builds a recovery community in which those who went through it are now part of the solution to help those who are going through treatment.

“Estevan is the epicentre of that level of care, and I’m proud to be part of it,” Cafik said as he became emotional.

Cafik said there are some who will refuse help and walk out the doors. In those instances, Cafik will let the police know that an individual has left and there is a concern.

“We can’t keep anybody against their will,” said Cafik.

The addictions treatment centre keeps records on whether somebody was medically discharged, if they were released because they walked out or if they were transferred to another program.

Councillor Shelly Veroba said the number of people who voluntarily leave would be a very small number compared to the number that stay.

“I think what I was originally told was the majority of people that come have already climbed into the detox process, and they basically are there because they want to be there,” said Veroba. “We all know how

hard it is to continue the program, but the desire to be there is theirs alone.”

The facility has beds for those going through detox, and once they’re ready, they are moved to primary care.

“It’s nice that it’s not just detox, and then there’s nowhere to go,” said Cafik.

“Sometimes we get transfers from other detox [facilities]. We will put a patient on a high priority … because they want help. To me they’re doing the work already, and we want to carry that momentum.”

But people will leave in the detox process because they might get scared, or they might come around and feel good and start want to using substances again. So the addictions treatment centre will partner patients with the support staff who will visit them, so they’re not left alone.

Councillor Travis Frank expressed gratitude for their honesty and sincerity.

“We know there is a stigma around this, but I’ve had family who have gone through addictions recovery as well, and so I know as well that stigma is not fair and this is a very important health-care matter, and we really appreciate you’re doing this work on the matter.”

the sprinkler system. The scene was turned back over to the building owner to have someone come in and inspect the system.

The following day, carbon monoxide alarms went off at a residence in the south side of the city.

Crews responded and Luc

said there was no gas detected in the residence. A faulty detector is believed to be the culprit.

The following day, they had another CO alarm in southeast Estevan which proved to be caused by a faulty detector.

Finally, emergency crews were called to a single-vehicle rollover north of Estevan during the noon hour on Feb. 6. Luc said minor injuries occurred.

The fire hall will also be the site of an open house for Estevan EMS on Feb. 8 from 6:30-8 p.m. for anyone interested in becoming an emergency medical responder.

Anthony Cafik is the manager of addictions treatment at St. Joseph’s Hospital. File photo

The Estevan Fire Rescue Service responded to a carbon monoxide call in southeast Estevan on Saturday.

Kapiczowski joins CurlSask Honour Roll

The contributions of Bill Kapiczowski to the sport of curling in Estevan and elsewhere have been recognized.

Kapiczowski was inducted into the CurlSask Legends of Curling Honour Roll during Thursday’s luncheon for the SaskTel Tankard provincial men’s curling championship in Estevan.

He spent many years locally as a curler, coach, volunteer, icemaker and board member at the Estevan Curling Club.

A video was shown during the luncheon, with tributes from Bob Doerr, Leanne Carlson and Tyler McMillen.

Doerr described Kapiczowski as one of Estevan’s finest citizens, and said the curling club is lucky to have him.

“I’ve known him for many, many years,” said Doerr. “He taught me in high school and he was involved in the curling program back then.”

Doerr said Kapiczowski has always been a big community supporter.

Carlson pointed out Kapiczowski has been a big factor in her curling career. It started in high school when he took her team to Maidstone for provincials, and was a “phenomenal” coach at that time.

“I had a few-year hiatus from curling, and I came back into curling again, and he has been my skip for the last 12 or 13 years now, and we won a few league championships with him,” said Carlson. “I can’t say enough about him. He was a great icemaker when I first started off.”

McMillen has been a part of the curling club since coming to Estevan more than 20 years ago. He said Kapiczowski has been a staple at the curling club as an athlete, icemaker and more.

“It’s fun to be around him, learn from him and play

against him, just an absolute treasure for our club and our community,” said McMillen.

Kapiczowski served as the club’s head icemaker until 2014, but has continued to help out with creating and maintaining the ice since then. While serving

in the role, he handled the ice for numerous provincial championships and southern men’s and women’s playdowns that were held at the club.

He has also remained an active curler. Last fall he skipped a team that reached

the semifinal round at the provincial master’s curling championships in Estevan.

Other members of his team were lead Lawrence Hansen, second Ron Rittaler and third Gary Cheney.

And the Kapiczowski rink delivered the open-

ing rock during Wednesday night’s opening ceremonies for the Tankard.

He also won a provincial teacher’s curling championship while he was still at the Estevan Comprehensive School.

The previous week, Rob Greensides was posthumously inducted into the Honour Roll for his work with the Assiniboia Curling Club.

Meanwhile, Viterra and SaskTel were also inducted for their continued support of the sport in Saskatchewan.

The Honour Roll was created in 2004 to salute those who have made great contributions to the sport in Saskatchewan. Prior to Kapiczowski, the most recent inductee from the Estevan area was Robert Keating, who joined the Honour Roll in 2016 for his leadership with the Benson Curling Club.

Sharks athletes compete at Weyburn tournament

Members of the Estevan Sharks’ mini and atom teams were in Weyburn on Jan. 29 for a water polo tournament.

The atom boys started the day off. They played four games and came away with a 3-1 record. They met the Regina Armada Orange in the final, but just couldn’t outscore the Regina team, leaving the Sharks in second place for the weekend.

The squad did have some high scorers with Royce Milford getting 14 goals, Hudson Enns scoring 13, Carter Yunick finishing with 10, Sawyer Bomberak netting three and Dalton Maley scoring twice.

First-year player Sebastian Martens said he likes how competitive water polo is, and he really likes learning the different strategies and improving his ballthrowing skills.

The Sharks were able to send a full atom girls team and had a few players join with the Weyburn Hurricanes to make a second

team. The atom Sharks White played four games in Weyburn but went 0-4.

Blaire Wilson, Jill Rosengren and Marlow Molstad each had two goals over the four games.

The Estevan-Weyburn team came out of the tournament with a 2-2 record.

Veteran swimmer Jennika Linthicum scored 10 points during their games.

Molstad said she likes having her friends beside her during the games.

Ayla Smelt, who played for the joint Estevan-Weyburn team, said her favourite part of the tournament was being able to play against the Sharks White team.

The youngest athletes from the Estevan Sharks were divided into two minis teams at the tournament. A total of seven teams came from Regina, Weyburn and Estevan to compete.

The mini Sharks White finished with a 2-1-1 record. Eli Sclear had 14 goals, Jaxson Ward notched eight points, Rosalie Horracks

had four goals and Raymond Johnson rounded out the scoring with three markers. The mini Sharks Blue finished with a 1-1-2 record.

Jaxon Reinhard scored eight

goals, Eoin Jones had seven, Aksel Senholt notched three points, Brynna Sherling and Willow Van Sickle each scored twice and Simon Hall had one.

Ward said the best parts of the tournament were scoring goals, playing goal and hanging out with friends in between games.

Sawyer Klotz from the Sharks Blue added that swimming and getting the ball were his favourite parts of the competition.

Playoff matchups set in the Big Six Hockey League

The regular season has come to an end, and now it’s time for the postseason in the Big Six Hockey League.

Eleven games were played in a four-day span from Sunday to Thursday to wrap up the regular season.

The Yellow Grass Wheat Kings knocked off the Arcola-Kisbey Combines 9-2 in the lone game on Thursday.

Four games were played on Friday night. The Redvers Rockets beat the Moosomin Rangers to clinch the regular season title. Also, the Carlyle Cougars doubled up the Wawota Flyers 6-3, the Bienfait Coalers trounced the Kipling-

Windthorst Oil Kings 9-2 and the Midale Mustangs defeated the Combines 9-4.

Four more games happened on Saturday. The Huskies routed the Flyers 9-1, the Rockets blanked the Wheat Kings 11-0, the Mustangs defeated the Cougars 10-2, and the Coalers outgunned the Combines 17-6 in one of the highest-scoring games in recent Big Six memory. Bienfait had a 10-3 lead after the first period.

Two games were played on Sunday to finish off the season. The Huskies defeated the Wheat Kings 6-1 and the Rangers beat the Coalers 8-5.

How do you know you are in love?

You are happy. -

Redvers finished first overall with a 19-1 record and 38 points. The Rockets have won 19 consecutive games after losing their opening game of the season to Oxbow. The Huskies were second at 16-3-1 for 33 points, and the Rangers were third at 16-4 and 32 points. The Red Devils, who won the league championship last season, were fourth at 15-5 and 30 points.

The Coalers came fifth at 11-9 and 22 points, followed by the Cougars (910-1, 19 points), the Wheat Kings (8-11-1, 17 points) and the Mustangs (8-11-1, 17 points) to round out the playoff teams.

The Flyers (4-15-1, nine points), the Oil Kings (416, eight points) and the Combines (0-20) missed the playoffs.

Bud Holloway of the Rangers led the league in scoring with 37 goals and 76 points in 20 games. Presten Kopeck of Redvers was second with 19 goals and 65 points in 19 games.

Cody Matthewson of Redvers led the league in goals against average at 1.70. Mason Plews of the Red Devils was second at 1.75.

The playoff matchups will see the Rockets play the Mustangs, the Huskies take on the Wheat Kings,

How do you show someone you love them?

Hugs and kisses. -

the Rangers versus the Cougars and the Red Devils play the Coalers. The latter series will be a rematch of their hard-fought first-

round matchup from a year ago, which Carnduff won in three games. The quarter-finals will be best-of-three matchups. Sit beside them.

How do you show someone you love them? Photo

-

What makes you feel loved?

When somebody does something nice to me. -

Bill Kapiczowski delivered the ceremonial first rock during the opening ceremonies of the SaskTel Tankard. Photo courtesy of CurlSask.

Members of the atom boys’ team were, back row, from left, coach Mellissa Enns, Hudson Enns, Carter Smelt, Carter Yunick, Sawyer Bomberak, Dalton Maley, Sebastian Martens and coach Lucinda Milford. Front row, Royce Milford and Langston Sherling. Photo courtesy Estevan Sharks water polo

The Estevan Mermaids’ synchronized swim team’s competitive athletes recently attended the Sandra Roberts Provincial Championship in Saskatoon.

Isabelle Pyra, competing in the 12-and-under solo division, was fifth for her solo and third for her overall championship score.

In youth solo, Rowen Shier was second for her solo and third for her championship score. Sierra Mantei was sixth in solo and eighth for the championship total.

In junior solo, Sasha Mantei was fourth and Ava Allen was fifth.

The Estevan Comprehensive School Elecs senior boys’ basketball team is hitting their stride at just the right time.

The Elecs finished second at their annual home tournament on Friday and Saturday. Estevan opened with a convincing 91-63 victory over Swift Current in the two teams’ first meeting of the season, and then the Elecs edged their rivals, the Weyburn Comprehensive School Eagles, 74-71 to advance to the final, which they lost 66-60 to Moose Jaw Peacock.

Coach Tanner Kozun said the game against Weyburn was a “gruelling” contest.

“It was definitely a pretty hard-fought game,” said Ko-

Sasha Mantei and Allen, competing in junior duet, finished fourth.

The Southeast Connections team, featuring a combined Estevan and Weyburn entry, came in second. Sasha Mantei and Allen are also on that team.

The youth team, comprised of Shier, Mahaley Fonstad, Sasha and Sierra Mantei, and Isabelle and Sarah Pyra, finished fourth in both routine and in championship score.

Chanel Thievin, entered in the masters’ division for adults, was first in both the solo technical and the solo free.

zun. “It was a big win for us … given the circumstance of the McLeod [Series] unfolding way it did, not happening this year. So, it turned into an even bigger matchup because that might be the only time we play them the rest of the year.”

The fans were into the game, and it was a fun and exciting contest for the teams.

Estevan was 1-1 this season against Moose Jaw Peacock entering Saturday’s final. Moose Jaw Peacock came out strong and played aggressively on defence, Kozun said, and held a commanding lead late in the third quarter. Estevan fought back to make it a 6460 game, but Moose Jaw added a couple of late free throws.

“I told the guys going into the fourth, if we’re going to make a push, we have to do it now, and we did. We made it interesting,” said Kozun.

Kozun noted that all three teams the Elecs faced are in the 5A rural division with ECS, and these games will contribute to rankings for small-city playdowns next month. There are 11 5A teams in Saskatchewan outside of Saskatoon and Regina.

He was pleased with the Elecs’ ball pressure on defence.

“We’re one of the few teams in the province that will pick up full court and apply ball pressure,” said Kozun. “We like to try to force skill out of other teams, and

see if they’re as confident at handling the ball as they appear when they’re not getting pressure.”

Kozun noted that Weyburn has a star player named Tommy Olson who averaged 38 points per game at the ECS tournament, but the Elecs kept him to 28. It’s still a lot for a 40-minute game, but Kozun was pleased with how Estevan handled Weyburn’s star.

The players did a good job of executing some new offensive sets that were employed in tournament play for the first time this season.

Opposing teams were impressed with the Estevan fans, Kozun said. When the Elecs

weren’t playing, the fans would adopt a team as their own and cheer for that squad, adding to the atmosphere of the tournament.

Kozun said ECS had a tough start to the season with games against some tough opponents like Prince Albert Carlton and Regina Riffle, which is the top team in the Queen City. But they have gone 7-2 in their past nine games.

“After the Christmas break, we’ve definitely been playing a lot sharper. Our schedule’s definitely not as difficult as it was earlier in the season, but you can’t play top-five ranked teams all year round,” said Kozun.

The Elecs are gaining confidence, beating other teams at the 5A level and playing better each week leading to regionals.

He also praised the efforts of Grade 11 student Koen Turner, saying Turner is likely one of the top-10 players in the province.

“He’s just a really fun and exciting player to watch, I’d say, for the community of Estevan,” said Kozun. “There has been a lot of good players to come out of Estevan, and maybe some of the community doesn’t actually know we’ve sent off a lot of kids to college.” Estevan will compete at a tournament at Prince Albert St. Mary’s this weekend.

Bears drop three straight in latest road trip

The Estevan Steelhaus

U18 AAA Bears came away with one of a possible six points in their latest northern road trip

The Bears started with a 10-3 loss Friday to the Saskatoon Blazers in the second matchup in five days against the league-leading Blazers. The game was tied at 2-2 after the first period, as Jase Konecsni and Marc Belanger scored for Estevan.

Saskatoon took over from there with four goals in the

opening 9:02 of the second period.

Jye Zawatsky scored in the second period for Estevan’s other goal.

Riley Deck stopped 33 of the 43 shots he faced.

Estevan’s next game was a 4-3 shootout loss to the Warman Wildcats on Saturday. Konecsni scored in the first period to give Estevan a 1-0 lead. Cade Cole scored twice in the third, including the game-tying goal with 55 seconds to play.

Warman outscored Estevan 2-1 in the shootout.

Kaden Perron made 33 saves for Estevan.

The final game was a 7-2 loss to the Warman Wildcats. Kole Keen and Teigan Semchyshen had goals to give Estevan a 2-1 lead in the opening 23 minutes of the game, and it was a 3-2 game after two periods, but Warman took over with four goals in the first 10 minutes of the third.

Deck made 38 saves in the loss.

Estevan (8-22-0-6) will have their first home games of 2023, and their final home games of the 2022-23 regular season, when they host the Battlefords Stars on Feb. 11 and 12 at 2 p.m. each day. They will also visit the Regina Pat Canadians on Feb. 14 at 8 p.m.

The Estevan TS&M U15 AA Bruins fell 5-4 to the Weyburn Wings last Wednesday night in Weyburn.

Estevan led 2-1 after the first period on goals by Gunner Moore and Nathan Gardiner, and 4-1 after two, thanks to goals by Cameron Milbrandt and Boston Tait. Weyburn rallied with four goals in the third, including the game-winner with 49 seconds to play.

Jaxon Kuchinka stopped 33 shots in the loss.

Estevan (4-15-1-2) will visit the Moose Jaw Warriors on Feb. 11, host the Regina Pat Blues on Feb. 12 at 5:15 p.m. and host the Wings on Feb. 14 at 6:30 p.m. Home games will be at Affinity Place.

•••

The Estevan Ironside Energy U11 AA Bruins swept

their weekend games against the Melville Millionaires, winning 6-3 on Saturday and 8-4 on Sunday.

It was the second straight weekend Estevan swept Melville.

Ethan Phillips and Penn Tytlandsvik each had three goals for Estevan in Saturday’s game.

Phillips had three goals and an assist on Sunday. Tytlandsvik had two goals and a helper. Kolter Snell, Braxton Shier and Nash Cameron had the other goals. Ty Blackburn was in goal for both games.

Up next for the U11 Bruins will be a tournament in Brandon.

Members of the Mermaids youth team are, from left, coach Kelsey Patoma, Rowan Shier, Sierra Mantei, Isabelle Pyra, Mahaley Fonstad, Sarah Pyra and coach Amber Mantei. Photo courtesy of the Estevan Mermaids

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Barry A. Bourquin

Barry A. Bourquin - 65, Minot, died Friday, January 28, 2023 peacefully in his home.

Appendix C

FORM H

[Section 66 of the Act]

Notice of Call for Nominations

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Barry Allan Bourquin was born on November 24, 1957, son of Louis and Marjorie (Phillips) Bourquin in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. He was raised and educated in Estevan, SK, where he graduated from Estevan Comprehensive School. As a child, he joined his family and relatives on many trips to England. During his youth and teenage years, Barry had many hobbies that he enjoyed including band, golf, and tennis as well as being active in the Christian service brigade and a volunteer for the local fire department. He furthered his education by attending Minot State University. While at MSU, he was active with the college band and choir, and it was there he met the love of his life, Marie Hagen.

On August 12, 1978, Barry was united in marriage to Marie in Minot, ND. They made their home in Minot, where they raised their sons Nathan, Colton, and Sutton. In addition to being a husband and father, Barry worked as a loss prevention manager at K-Mart in Minot for over 30 years. He then delivered for the Minot Daily News, and finally worked at Scheels sporting goods until retirement. Post retirement, Barry spent many days caring for his grandchildren whenever needed.

Barry was a long-time member of Bethany Lutheran Church, and it played a large role in his life. He loved the choir at Bethany, having been a part of it for close to 45 years until his death. His passion for music extended beyond the church. Throughout the years, he performed many solos and duets with his wife Marie at weddings, funerals and various functions as well as being an excellent trombonist.

He enjoyed the family’s annual lake trip to Red Wing Lodge in Walker, MN where he played many rounds of golf through the years. His love of golf also included weekly rounds at the local courses in Minot as well as yearly trips to California to watch tournaments and take in the beautiful courses. He was always an avid reader and looked forward to his daily drive and coffee run. His children and grandchildren were the highlight of his life, and he appreciated every moment with them. They will forever love and miss their “Papa”

Barry is survived by: Sons: Colton (Courtney) Bourquin and Sutton (KayLee) Bourquin; grandchildren: Declan Bourquin, Luca Bourquin, Avery Bourquin, Emersyn Bourquin and Caden Bourquin; Stepmother: Ruth Bourquin, Estevan, SK, Canada

Sister: Donna Lynn Godfrey, Saskatoon, SK, Canada;

In-laws: Gloria Hauge, Kathleen Sherwood, Jeanette (John) Festvog, Nadine (Bryan) Holmly;

Nieces and nephews: Curtis Hauge, Heidi (Scott) Oppegard, Eric Festvog, Ian Holmly, Evan Holmly, Nelson Godfrey (Jennifer), Connor Godfrey (Kayli) and Spencer Godfrey. Numerous greatnieces and nephews.

Barry was preceded in death by his wife Marie, son Nathan, parents Louis and Marjorie Bourquin, mother and father-in-law Ruth and Gerald Hagen, brothers-in-law Bruce Sherwood and Carroll Hauge and niece Carmen Bowden. Visitation: There will be no reviewal as cremation has taken place, however friends may sign guest register on Friday one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorial Service: Friday, February 3, 2023 at 11 am at Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot. The service will be livestreamed and may be accessed at www.Bethanylutheranchurch58701.com

Burial: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot

Marie Edith King

Sadly on Wednesday, January 25, 2023 Marie Edith King (Mair) passed away at the Sunset Haven Nursing Home in Carnduff, SK. She was 96 years old. She was predeceased by two husbands: Bob King of Estevan, SK. and David Armit of Brandon, MB.

Marie is survived by four children: Janis Miller (David), Barbara Johnson (Brian), Alan Armit (Sharon), Norman Armit (Kristine) and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. She was a wonderful young at heart lady who left her mark on family and friends with her generosity and zest for living. She was known for her ability to make something out of nothing and being fastidious about hand washing way before Covid! She leaves a wonderful legacy as a loving mother and will be sorely missed.

Marie’s family will gather to celebrate her life at a later date. Arrangements in care of Redpath Funeral Home, Carnduff, SK. (306) 482-3309. Neil Redpath and Kurt Ardron - Funeral Directors. To send messages of condolence to the family, please visit: www. redpathfuneralhome.com

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EMPLOYMENTOPPORTUNITY-AreaForeman SurgeEnergyInc.isanoil-focusedE&Pcompanythathashigh-quality reservoirs,steadyproductionandcashflow.Surgehaselite,operated propertiescharacterizedbylargeOOIPwithlowrecoveryfactors,over 950netlow-riskdevelopmentlocationsprovidingover14yearsofdrilling inventory,andnumeroushigh-qualitywaterfloodopportunities.Surge's managementteamhasinitiatedanorderly,ongoingriskmanagement/ hedgingprogramdesignedtomaintainthebalancesheet.Surge'scommonsharestradeontheTorontoStockExchangeunderthesymbolSGY. SurgeiscurrentlyacceptingapplicationsforthepositionofAreaForeman forSESaskatchewanassets.Thiskeyleadershippositionwillbebased outofWeyburn,Estevan,orthesurroundingareaandreporttotheProductionSuperintendent.Responsibilitiesincludefosteringandpromoting theEH&S/SLMSprogram,meetingprojectedproductiontargets,budget planningandexecution,dailyproductionaccountingandcoordinatingpreventativemaintenance.Itwillbecriticalforthesuccessfulcandidateto managestakeholdersandstakeholderrelationshipsandmentorcontract operators.TheAreaForemanisencouragedtotakeinitiativeintheirarea tobringcreativesolutions,recommendimprovementstoexistingproceduresandimplementnewideastoensurethefieldmeetsperformance standardsandalignswithcorporateandexternalregulatoryguidelines.

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-Hands-onexperienceandfullworkingknowledgeofartificialliftequipment -Experienceworkingwithoilandgastreatingandprocessingfacilities -AcompleteunderstandingofSCADAsystemsandoptimizationVFDs andsoftware -Astrongsafetymindsetandabilitytoparticipateinandpromotea safetyculture -Provenrecordofachievingproductiontargetscoupledwithstrongoperatingexpensemanagement strategies -Workcollaborativelywithinafast-pacedteamenvironmentwiththe confidencetoopenlyand constructivelyarticulateandpromoteideas,particularlywiththeEngineers,Geoscientistsand ContractOperators -Applicablefirstaidandsafetytraining(H2SAlive,WHIMIS,Standard FirstAid,GroundDisturbance, ConfinedSpaceetc.) -Abilityandsuccessfulexperienceindevelopingandmanagingbudgets -Strongtechnicalskills,includingtheabilitytouseMicrosoftOffice productsandProductionAccountingsoftware -Self-directedwiththeabilitytoprioritizeandorganizetasksand projectswhiledemonstratinghands-onaccountabilityforwork Interestedcandidatesshouldforwardaresume priortoFebruary24,2023to:hr@surgeenergy.ca

SurgeEnergyInc. CentennialPlace-EastTower Suite1200,5203rdAvenueSW Calgary,ABT2P0R3 403-930-1010surgeenergy.ca

Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2007

Big game award and photography winners of 2006 were celebrated during the annual Estevan Wildlife Federation Awards Night in February 2007. The winners were, back row, from left, Trevor Bourassa, Brent Van De Woestyne, Kelly Pastachak, Cory Rucks, Garry Leslie, Dan Mosley, Dallas Leduc and Carla Ramsey. Seated are Frank Mosley and Mary Jacobs

Estevan to be well represented at Winter Games

There will be a healthy contingent of Estevan-area athletes on Team Southeast at the upcoming Saskatchewan Winter Games in Regina.

For table tennis, female competitors will include Hannah Mercer and Erica Gener of Estevan.

Male competitors in-

clude Connor Mercer, also of Estevan. The curling team includes female curlers Heidi Fradette and Amy Fradette of Lake Alma, and Kristen Carlson and Malina Stead of Estevan, with Pauline Ziehl Grimsrud as the coach. They have been curling out of Estevan.

The artistic swimming team includes Ava Allen of Midale, and Sasha Mantei, Sierra Mantei, Rowyn Shier and Isabelle Pyra, all of Estevan.

The gymnastics team includes Eliza Gall and Heidi Byers of Estevan.

The Special Olympics

bowling team includes Sarah Henry and Cynthia Goudy of Estevan.

The figure skating team includes Magdelena Szlapacka, Rachel Duncan, Sydney Brooks and McKenna Bohn, all of Estevan. The futsal team includes Indiana Froese of Estevan.

Over 200 athletes, coaches and their families filled McKenna Hall in Weyburn for a Team Southeast pep rally on Sunday afternoon.

The Saskatchewan Winter Games will run from Feb. 19-25. The first half of the games, from Feb. 19-22, will feature alpine skiing, artistic

swimming, biathlon, badminton, Special Olympics bowling, curling, gymnastics, speed skating, table tennis and weightlifting.

The second half, from Feb. 22-25, will include crosscountry and para-Nordic skiing, figure skating, futsal, judo, target shooting and wrestling.

Bearcats split games in western Saskatchewan

The Estevan IG Wealth Management U13 AA Bearcats split games in the South Saskatchewan Female Hockey League during a road trip to western Saskatchewan on the weekend.

Estevan defeated the Swift Current Wildcats 4-3 on Feb. 4. Goals by Bree Poelen and Chelsea Madsen gave Estevan a 2-0 lead by the four-minute mark of the second period. Peyton

McIntyre scored twice in the first three minutes of the third to finish Estevan’s scoring.

Baya Summers was in goal for the win.

The following day, Este-

van lost 8-2 to the leagueleading Western Prairie Thunder in Rosetown. Madsen had both goals for Estevan. Taylor Short was the Estevan goalie.

Estevan Web Printing is looking to fill INSERTER POSITIONS

Part Time, 20-40 hours per week

No experience required Duties would include: hand inserting flyers into papers, manually feeding machine pockets with flyers, moving pallets of flyers and products. Apply by: 27-Jan-2023

Apply by sending your resume to:

jobs@estevanwebprinting.com

Estevan (5-19-1) will visit the Weyburn Goldwings on Feb. 15 to close out the regular season.

•••

The South East Aaron Well Serving U18 AA Goldwings split games that they played last week.

On Jan. 31, they defeated the Notre Dame Hounds 4-1 in Midale. Katelyn Thackeray scored early in the second period to give the Goldwings the lead, and then Samantha Colpitts, Victoria Mann and Hadley Gerle tallied in the third to put the game away.

Phoenix Preston-Winder was in goal.

The following day, the Goldwings fell 3-1 to the host Regina Rebels. Thackeray’s goal late in the first period was the Wings’ lone tally.

Ivey Grant was in goal.

The Wings were scheduled to host the Rebels on Feb. 7. (Results not available at press time). They will host the Northwest Sharks on Feb. 12 at 2 p.m. in Midale.

The South East TS&M U18 A Goldwings lost 5-0 to the Milestone Flyers on Feb. 1 in Midale. Karley Martin was in goal.

The Wings were slated to visit the Flyers on Feb. 7. (Results not available at press time). They will host the Southwest Cyclones on Feb. 10 at 7:30 p.m. in Midale, visit the Balcarres Barracudas on Feb. 11, and host the Wood River Ice Cats on Feb. 12 at 11 a.m. in Midale.

The Estevan Southland Pulse U15 Bearcats dropped a 5-1 decision to the Borderland Badgers Jan. 31 at the Power Dodge Arena. Katie Sauder scored 6:45 into the first period to open the scoring.

Kayla Mitchell was in goal for Estevan.

The Bearcats (9-7-2) will close out the regular season when they host the Badgers on Feb. 18 at 1 p.m. at the Power Dodge Arena, and the Weyburn Wings 2 on Feb. 19 at 2:15 p.m.

Nearly 400 riders brave the cold for the Arcola Optimist Club’s Snowmobile Rally

By Stephanie Zoer

The Arcola Optimist Club’s 30th anniversary snowmobile rally was held on Jan. 28, with the starting point at the Arcola Prairie Place Complex.

Approximately 80 kilometres of trails were used by the rally, with trails being groomed and maintained by the Moose Mountain Snowmobile Club.

According to chairman Geordan Workman, the Moose Mountain club does a great deal of work to keep these trails in top condition for everyone to enjoy throughout the winter.

Breakfast marked the beginning of the event, which started at 8 a.m. at the complex. The meal was served by the Town of Arcola and RM of Brock Volunteer Fre Department. They served up some pancakes, eggs and ham.

By the time noon rolled around, nearly 400 riders had registered and were ready to hit the trails. Once registered, the riders could go at any time.

Workman felt this was an excellent turnout, considering the temperatures for the day.

According to Arcola Optimist Club president Blake Brownridge, due to the extreme cold, riders might have decided to go quickly through the trails.

Arcola Agencies remained open for the Saturday morning to give those a chance to licence their sleds, so they could still enter. All machines on the trails had to be registered.

All precautions were taken on the trails to ensure a safe trip. No drugs or alcohol were allowed and there was no stopping on the trail. Halfway through the ride ,a check point was

City Hall: 1102 4th Street

8 am to 4:30 pm | (306) 634-1800

Leisure Office: 701 Souris Avenue

8 am to 4:30 pm | (306) 634-1880

MAYOR’S MESSAGE:

Congrats to a Successful Scotties and Tankard!

Thank you to Helen and Devon Fornwald and their team and all the volunteers for a fantastic job! Well done! Please remember the upcoming Bruins supper on February 9, 2023. Get your tickets!

GUARD/MATRON

The Estevan Police Service is seeking applications for a casual Guard/ Matron position.

Guard/Matrons provide constant observation of persons held in custody at the Estevan Police Service Detention Center. Hours of work can vary and will include night shifts. Length of shifts vary from three to eight hours to a maximum of 40 hours per week. Successful applicants may also be called upon on short notice. Training will be provided.

Application packages can be picked up in person or downloaded from our website at www.estevanpolice.ca

Completed packages are to be forwarded to the attention of;

Murray Cowan

Deputy Chief of Police

Estevan Police Service

301-11th Avenue

Estevan, Saskatchewan

S4A 1C7

306-634-4767

Anyone interested in this position may also contact Fern THIESSEN fthiessen@estevanpolice.ca or call 306.634.1510 for further information

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Council of the City of Estevan pursuant to the Cities Act that the Council of the City of Estevan, gives notice of its intention to implement a bylaw to dispense with the mailing of assessment notices under section 184 (2) of the Cities Act for the City of Estevan

On January 23, 2023 meeting the first reading of the Bylaw 2023-2066 was passed and the final readings is expected to be on February 13, 2023.

The proposed Bylaws 2023-2066 may be inspected by any person in the City Clerk’s Office, on the main level of City Hall, between the hours of 9 am and 4 pm, Monday to Friday.

Dated this 24th day of January, 2023.

Judy Pilloud

1102 4th Street

Estevan, SK S4A 0W7

set up for hot chocolate, snacks and a fire pit. Each rider needed to purchase their ticket in the rally to be eligible to ride and for the prizes drawn at 5 p.m.

For those who did not wish to ride the trail, they could gather at the complex for a social as the beer gardens opened at 1 p.m. Over 100 businesses sponsored this large event,

helping to make it the success it was.

Saskatchewan YouTube personality Quick Dick McDick went on stage to a full house later in the afternoon. His routine is

usually based on Canadian politics and farming issues. McDick is also a farmer in Saskatchewan.

At 5 p.m. the rider draws were made for the $18,000 in prizes. The 50/50 draw, raffle draws and the annual Snowmobile Rally Lottery followed.

A concession and supper at the complex were prepared by the Carlyle and District Foodbank.

Money raised from this event will go towards upgrades at the Arcola Optimist-Legion Hall, sound upgrades at the Mac Murray Theatre, which is also run by the club, and the Moose Mountain Snowmobile Club.

Brownridge said the next event they have planned is a Valentines dinner and movie at the Optimist-Legion Hall on Feb. 14. Dinner will be a prime rib steak.

The Estevan Police Service is seeking applications for the position of Police Constable.

The Estevan Police Service offers a competitive salary and benefits package, ongoing professional development, and a range of career opportunities.

Currently serving and trained Canadian police officers are encouraged to apply.

All candidates must possess minimum qualifications, including the following:

18 years of age

Grade 12 Diploma or equivalent

Excellent physical condition and health with no medical conditions that would prohibit your ability to safely complete recruit training and perform all aspects of police work Canadian citizen, landed immigrant, or have a permanent residency at the time of application

Valid driver’s license (unrestricted for a minimum of one year) and good driving record

Good moral character Exemplary employment record

Excellent communication skills, both written and oral

Computer skills

For more information on the requirements, selection process, and the application package, please visit our website, www.estevanpolice.ca (Employment Opportunities). A fully completed Personal Disclosure Form must accompany each application. Please submit completed packages, including an up-to-date resume, in a sealed envelope to:

Chief of Police

Estevan Police Service

301-11th Ave.

Estevan, Sask.

S4A 1C7

Thank you for your interest in the Estevan Police Service. No phone calls, please. Only successful candidates will be contacted. The closing date is March 31, 2023.

PLEASE HELP KEEP OUR SIDEWALKS SAFE SO ALL CITIZENS CAN ENJOY A SAFE PASSAGE WHILE WALKING

Traffic Bylaw 2016-1963

Depositing Substances

53. (1) No person shall deposit any natural substances on any highway, public sidewalk, boulevard or ditch within the City of Estevan

(3) The occupier of property in the City of Estevan shall remove any snow, ice or other obstruction from the public sidewalk adjacent to such property within twenty-four (24) hours of the time such snow, ice or other obstruction appears on such public sidewalk.

* In the event that this subsection is not complied with, the City may remove such snow, ice or other obstructions at the expense of such occupants or owner, and in the event of the non-payment of such expense, such expense may be charges against the property as a special assessment to be recovered in like manner as and with the taxes.

Rows of snowmobiles lined up outside the Arcola Prairie Place Complex to register for the rally. Photo by Stephanie Zoer

EPS arrests an impaired driver on the weekend

Members of the Estevan Police Service received a report of an assault that took place on Feb. 3. One of the accused individuals was arrested, charged and released with conditions. The matter is still under investigation as there were other individuals involved.

A traffic stop resulted in a male being charged

with impaired driving. Two samples of breath were obtained, with reading results more than double the legal limit. The accused’s vehicle was impounded and his licence was suspended. He was released with a court date later in the year.

Police also received a report of an individual threatening staff at a local

licensed premise. Members attended but the subject had left prior to officers arriving.

Police conducted a positive policing initiative during the overnight hours. People were rewarded for finding an alternate way home.

Officers attended to a residence on Feb. 4 after

Communities standing with Cory Lynn Moe

By Gord Paulley

Recently, Glen Ewen resident Cory Lynn Moe (nee Fitzpatrick) suffered a serious spinal injury while vacationing on her honeymoon in Mexico.

Moe, 26, is a sister to both Brooklyn and Garret; the three are triplets.

The accident occurred on Jan. 17. She underwent cervical spine surgery in Puerto Vallarta on Jan. 20 and was flown home to Canada on Jan. 27.

The airline company was Jet Rescue, and the plane was basically an intensive care unit in the air. Moe is now recovering in the Regina General Hospital but is still in ICU.

She is a registered nurse and is employed with the Sunset Haven Nursing Home in Carnduff

Brianne Fitzpatrick is the older sister of the triplets and has set up a GoFundMe page aptly named Standing with Cory.

“We are relieved that Cory is now home and on Canadian soil. Our family is fond of saying ‘Cory’s the toughest Fitzpatrick’ and that statement rings

true again. She is slowly recovering but is still on a ventilator.”

The Fitzpatrick family has many connections to hockey and the Big Six Hockey League. Moe is married to Dalton Moe, whose business, Moe Construction, is a sponsor of the Oxbow Huskies.

Her brother Garret plays with the Carnduff Red Devils. Brooklyn’s husband, John Potapinski, is a forward with the Redvers Rockets.

Brianne’s boyfriend is Jon Gaudet, who plays with the Carlyle Cougars.

The entire gate receipts from the Carlyle/Carnduff game amounted to $2,340, and all were donated to Cory and Dalton by the Red Devils. The Oxbow Huskies had two home games this weekend and shared their proceeds from the two large pot of gold draws. The Carlyle Cougars pledged $500 and the Sunday night game proceeds between the Combines and the host Redvers Rockets are also being donated.

“The outpouring of kindness and compassion has been overwhelming and our family truly appreciates the thoughts, prayers, love and support. Our hearts go out to the Red Devils, Cougars, Huskies and Rockets of the Big Six Hockey League. They are truly a first-class act,” said Brianne.

To date, a GoFundMe Page has raised over $66,000 from over 600 donors. Please visit “Standing with Cory” on their GoFundMe page for both donation information and regular medical updates.

receiving a report that an individual might be overdosing. Members attended and determined the individual had consumed too much alcohol, but was in the company of a responsible individual. No further action was taken.

Police received a report of an individual having the victim’s property and not returning it. The police will follow up with an investigation for possession of stolen property.

Members received a report of criminal harassment. An individual from Manitoba continues to contact a person in Estevan. The matter is under investigation.

Officers received a report about an eastbound vehicle on Highway 39 that was heading to Estevan from Macoun at a high rate of speed. The vehicle was also reported to be passing on a solid yellow line. Members located the vehicle and issued two traffic tickets to the driver.

Police received a second report of criminal harassment from a victim in North Dakota. The victim has been harassed by an individual that lives in Estevan and Brandon, Man. The matter is still under investigation.

Police received a report of harassing communications between three indi-

viduals. The incidents have been ongoing for some time. Members obtained statements and the matter is under investigation. Traffic enforcement concentrated on the area around Affinity Place. Several vehicles were stopped and the drivers were checked for impaired driving. No impaired driving charges were laid. Police received a report of an intoxicated male at a local apartment complex on Feb. 5. The male was banging on doors in the complex. Members arrived and the male was placed under arrest for public intoxication. He was lodged in cells till sober.

Our ever-present help

After several years of cajoling, Sara and the girls got me to start watching the BBC’s remake of James Herriot’s All Creatures Great and Small.

The story follows three veterinarians who work in rural England in the 1930s. It is very good. If you are interested, you can find it on Sunday nights on PBS.

Last week, Helen, the new wife of one of the vets, was worrying about the coming war and about her husband, who seemed to be overworking himself. On top of that, she felt lost as she had left the family farm and had nothing to do in town. In short, she felt that her life was unravelling and that she had no control over it, or any way to put things back together again.

When the oldest veterinarian, Siegfried, saw her crying, he took her into the dining room and listened to her. When she was done, he said, “Helen, look at me. Ev-

eryone under this roof is in my care. Do you understand me?” She smiled, thanked him, and went on her way.

As I watched that scene, it struck me that none of Helen’s problems had changed, but she felt better because she heard the words that we all need to hear: You are not alone.

That is my greatest problem. I think and act as though I have no help and that I must handle all of my stress and trouble by myself. That is not true, though.

Psalm 46 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” (verse 1). A refuge is a safe place, like a fortress.

Tim Pippus of the Estevan Church of Christ

We have God’s strength within us through his Spirit. That his help is “everpresent” means that he is always watching, guiding and ready to help.

There is never a moment when that is not true.

To be sure, as the end of the verse says, trouble will come, but we are not alone. God knows, loves and cares about us.

The end of the Psalm says, “Be still and know that I am God” (verse 10). “Be still” does not mean “do nothing”. Rather, it means, “Calm down. Everything is being looked after”.

That is a message worth remembering and sharing.

Cory Lynn Moe has received lots of support since suffering serious injuries on her honeymoon.

Photo courtesy of GoFundMe